Drivers are being warned that they could face disqualification after the police increase specific checks.
Thanks to the clocks changing over the weekend, we’ve entered that time of the year where it just suddenly feels extra dark so early.
I mean, how depressing is it when you get to work when it’s dark, and then you leave and it’s dark again?
So, with the cold weather and early sunsets creeping in, more people are set to be on the UK roads after dark – and that could unfortunately lead to an increased risk with driving.
Now, it doesn’t take an idiot to point out that when it’s darker, it can be harder to see. But it can be an idiotic thing to do to drive when you can’t see.
More drivers will be on the roads after dark (Getty Stock images)
This is the very think police are being extra vigilant on, so you need to make sure your eyesight is up to scratch.
If you’re behind the wheel but can’t read a number plate from a distance of 20 metres during daylight, according to Road Safety GB, then you’re risking having your driving license taken away under Cassie’s Law legislation.
This was introduced back in 2013 after the death of Cassie McCord, who died at the age of 16 in 2011 when Colin Horsfall, 87, lost control of his car having failed a police eyesight check just days before.
And over the next two weeks, police will be carrying out roadside eye tests as part of a national road safety campaign.
Inspector Jason Baxter of Lincolnshire Police told the BBC: “Good vision is a prerequisite of safe driving, so it’s vital that before you get behind the wheel you are sure that your eyesight is up to the task.”
Drivers must be able to see far enough. (Getty Stock)
Baxter stressed that if you fail those required standards then you’re breaking the law.
“And this could mean a fine of up to £1,000, three penalty points and even possible disqualification,” he added.
Inspector Neil Hutchins of Humberside Police also explained: “Vision can decline gradually without you realising, so we are urging everyone to make sure they have regular eye tests as well as checking that friends and older relatives are getting tested regularly, too.
“As the nights draw in, vulnerable road users (such as horse riders, cyclists and motorcyclists) can be harder to spot, making good eyesight even more essential for all road users.”
Since Cassie’s Law was introduced, officers are able to request an urgent revocation of a driver’s licence through the DVLA if they believe it puts other people on the roads at risk.
Warwickshire Police also says that the DVLA must be made aware of certain eye conditions, adding that there are different standards for lorry and bus drivers.